For over eighteen years Gary served as the Senior Pastor of the Pump Springs Baptist Church in Harrogate Tennessee. Even though the church was in a rural area, it quickly grew into a ministry minded church that reached men and women for Christ in unique ways. Today the church reaches the unsaved and unchurched through ministries such as Celebrate Recovery, Jail ministry, Manna House/Shared Blessings, Hunting and fishing evangelism events, Upward Basketball, foreign missions, and many, many other areas.
In 2003 Gary began pursuing his desire to write a newspaper column to hunters and fishermen that would lead them to contemplate their relationship with their Creator. The column was picked up by two newspapers. After these many years now, it covers parts of eighteen states. His writing provided opportunities to speak to these same hunters and fishermen at events such as wild game dinners. The results were men giving their lives to Christ.
From that time, God began to move on Gary's heart in a way that would challenge him to step out in faith into this ministry on a full time basis. In January 2008, Gary did just that.
Gary has a Bachelor degree from Clear Creek Baptist Bible College and a Master's Degree in Theological Studies from Liberty University. Before becoming pastor, he served on staff at his home church, as Assistant to the Pastors in the area of Recreation and Sunday School.
Gary has been married to Teresa since 1980. He has three children and two grandchildren. He is also a proud pro staff member of PSE Archery, Mothwing Camo, Alpen Optics, and Schiek Sports.
Even though he was not raised in a hunting or fishing home, Gary has followed his heart to the water and woods since he was a child. What started on the banks of the local canal catching carp, now extends to every part of his life as he aims outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen toward Christ.
